On Sea & Land

By webber11-01-2015

‘On Sea & Land’ is a project by design Gerard Jasperse in which he documents the history of the Dutch province of Zeeland in connection with the wealth that it has produced in the past. He gives historical objects a new meaning by re-using them in his designs.

Gerard: “The Province of Zeeland boasts a rich history in terms of trade and agriculture. This wealth has traditionally been reflected in the local population’s clothes and jewellery. While it is interesting to research the aesthetics of such objects, this wealth also raises questions about its origins.”

Wealth comes at a price, as historical research has shown. Many of Zeeland’s riches came from exploitation, monopolies and slave trading. In ‘On Sea & Land’, Gerard visualizes this more uncomfortable aspect of Zeeland’s history by using traditional local crafts and giving historical objects a new lease of life.